Emerson College Overview

Emerson College is a four-year, full-time, more selective, lower transfer-in, higher education institution located in Boston, MA. It has an enrollment of 4,113 undergraduate students. The admissions acceptance rate is 45.28%.

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $45,609. Tuition is $52,190.00 without financial aid.

Emerson College is a predominantly bachelor’s-degree granting school.

At Emerson College, 86.78% of students return after freshman year (national average: 68%).

Emerson College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 13 to 1.

Emerson College Website

Emerson College Admissions

For the incoming class in 2023, the acceptance rate was 45.28%.

SAT or ACT scores are considered but not required.

• The average SAT score was 1325.0 for the incoming class of 2023.
• The median ACT score was 30.0 for the incoming class to 2023.

Emerson College Cost

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $45,609.

The average tuition is:

• $31,186, when family income is less than $30,000

• $36,753, when family income is between $30,001 and $48,000 

• $41,052, when family income is between $48,001 and $75,000

• $40,358, when family income is between $75,001 and $110,000

• $52,808, when family income is more than $110,000 

The average tuition shown here is based on the NET costs to students who receive financial aid. For the incoming class of 2023, 47.20% of students received a federal student loan and 16.07% of students received a Pell Grant.

Tuition is $52,190.00 without financial aid.

Emerson College Net Price Calculator

Emerson College Majors/Salaries

Emerson College has academic offerings within the core majors listed below.  

Please note that different schools classify majors differently, so it is best to view the school’s website to see the various programs it offers. See detailed information about the individual majors at Emerson College here.

Recent Graduate Salaries

(Average salaries of students from select majors two years after graduation)

• Communication and Media Studies. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $28,212
• Communication and Media Studies. (Master’s Degree) – $48,432
• Journalism. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $38,953
• Journalism. (Master’s Degree) – $41,193
• Radio, Television, and Digital Communication. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $32,264
• Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $38,289
• Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication. (Master’s Degree) – $57,318
• Publishing. (Master’s Degree) – $43,426
• Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $35,600
• Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas. (Master’s Degree) – $33,993
• Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $32,021
• Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies. (Master’s Degree) – $40,140
• Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $26,799
• Film/Video and Photographic Arts. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $29,081
• Communication Disorders Sciences and Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $21,508
• Communication Disorders Sciences and Services. (Master’s Degree) – $56,776
• Business/Corporate Communications. (Master’s Degree) – $57,318
• Marketing. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $44,327
• Marketing. (Master’s Degree) – $56,641

Emerson College Diversity

The racial diversity of students who received financial aid at Emerson College

• American Indian/Alaska Native: 0.05%
• Asian: 5.54%
• Black: 4.47%
• Hispanic: 11.89%
• Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: 0.10%
• Non-resident alien: 15.39%
• Two or more races: 4.08%
• Unknown: 1.95%
• White: 56.53%

At Emerson College, 1.41% of undergraduate students are 25 years old, or older.

Emerson College Frequently Asked Questions

How is school spirit at Emerson College?

School spirit at Emerson College is known to be pretty strong. The college has a close-knit community where students take pride in their school and enthusiastically support campus events and athletic teams. Students often wear school merch, such as t-shirts, sweatshirts, and hats, and participate in various traditions and rituals like lighting the “EC” sign on fire in the Boston Common during the homecoming week. Emerson also has a lively performing arts scene, which is another source of school spirit and pride. Overall, Emerson is a great place to be if you’re looking for a tight-knit and spirited college community.

What are some popular extracurriculars at Emerson College?

Emerson College offers various extracurricular activities that students can participate in. Some of the popular extracurriculars include A Capella groups, improv and sketch comedy groups, theater productions, dance groups, student-run radio, journalism and TV programs, and various art and literary magazines. Additionally, there are also over 80 student organizations that cater to different interests and passions such as cultural clubs, political groups, and community service organizations.

How are the food choices at Emerson College?

Emerson College offers a variety of dining options for students with varying tastes and dietary needs. The main dining hall is the Dining Center, which offers a range of cuisine from different cultures. There are vegetarian and gluten-free options available as well. In addition to the Dining Center, students can choose from a variety of cafes and food trucks located throughout the campus, providing options for those who want to grab a quick snack or meal on-the-go. Overall, students find the food choices at Emerson to be satisfactory and accommodating.

Is there Greek life at Emerson College?

Yes, there is a Greek life presence at Emerson College. However, Greek life at Emerson College is different from traditional Greek life at other colleges and universities. Emerson College recognizes three co-ed groups known as Greek organizations, which are Alpha Epsilon Pi (AEPi), Kappa Gamma Chi (KGC), and Delta Kappa Alpha (DKA). These organizations focus on community service and providing social opportunities, rather than traditional fraternity and sorority activities.

What is Emerson College known for?

Emerson College is known for its strong programs in communication and the arts. It is particularly renowned for its performing arts programs, including theater, film, and television production. Emerson also offers a range of programs in communication, journalism, marketing, and public relations, and is ranked highly for its journalism program. The college places a strong emphasis on experiential learning, which provides students with hands-on training and opportunities to work in their fields of interest. Additionally, Emerson is located in the heart of Boston, which offers students ample opportunities to explore the city’s vibrant cultural scene.

What are the most popular school clubs at Emerson College?

Emerson College offers a wide range of clubs and organizations for its students to participate in. Some of the most popular school clubs at Emerson College include: 1. Emerson Channel – a student-run television network that broadcasts news, sports, and entertainment content. 2. WERS – Emerson’s independent radio station that broadcasts a range of music and news programming. 3. Theta Alpha Phi – the college’s theatre honor society, dedicated to nurturing the talent and creativity of aspiring theatre artists. 4. EVVY Awards – an annual student-run awards show that recognizes excellence in film, television, and other creative arts. 5. Emerson Dance Company – a student-run dance company that performs a mix of styles, including contemporary, hip-hop, and jazz. These are just a few examples of the many clubs available at Emerson College, but there are plenty more to explore and join!

Is the campus at Emerson College safe?

Emerson College is located in the downtown area of Boston, which means that some basic safety concerns are to be expected, but overall the campus is considered safe. The college has a dedicated police department that is available 24/7 to respond to any emergency situation. Also, The campus is well-lit and has several blue light emergency phones throughout the campus that can be used to summon assistance in case of an emergency. Finally, the college provides a range of safety programs, including self-defense classes and safety escorts, for its students, faculty, and staff.